Pondicherry University is in the process of introducing a new postgraduate program in Hospitality Management.
Vice-Chancellor P. Prakash Babu of Pondicherry University said that the new post-graduate program in hospitality management has been proposed to be launched from the next academic year, in a press release commenting on the valedictory of ‘Akanksha 2026’, the flagship annual industry-institute interface initiative of the Department of Tourism Studies recently.
Mr. Prakash Babu noted that the move was part of strengthening the university’s commitment to industry-relevant education and highlighted the strategic role of tourism in regional development. He urged the students to apply the knowledge gained during the three-day interface in their corporate and entrepreneurial careers.
The event, which brought together more than 25 industry leaders, academics, international delegates and students, discussed new trends in tourism, hospitality, travel technology, sustainability and experiential tourism, and the means of fostering strong collaboration between academia and industry.
Sejoe Jose, Managing Director, Marvel Tours, Kochi, who was the chief guest, shared insights on innovation and ethical practices amid the rapid transformation of the industry, while Agnese Davidson, Rector, Vidzeme University of Applied Sciences, Latvia, the guest of honour, highlighted the importance of global collaboration.
Valmiki Harikishan, a tourism entrepreneur, highlighted entrepreneurial activities in marginal markets in his keynote speech.
Sibi PS, Head of Tourism Studies, highlighted the role of the annual event in bridging academia and industry and preparing students for opportunities in technology-based sustainable tourism. Sherry Abraham, associate professor and event coordinator, outlined the scope of the program, which includes special lectures, panel discussions, workshops and student activities.
K. Tharanikkarasu, Director (SEI&RR), Pondicherry University, presided over the inaugural session.
The post-inaugural final year MBA (Tourism and Travel Management) students received their appointment orders from the Chief Guest signifying the successful placements in leading firms in tourism, technology and hospitality that the department has enabled.
In a special address, Lalit Kishor Bhati, Architect and Urban Planner, Auroville, spoke about reimagining community tourism as co-creation for self-development.
Chaired by S. Sudalaimuthu, Professor, Department of Banking Technology, Pondicherry University, the panel discussion included smart technology industry experts like Syed Abdullah Badsha, Raja Ramalingam, Alok Kumar Das, Sejoe Jose, Shashwat Ramesh and Ilgvars Abols (Latvia).
Panelists explored AI personalization, digital marketing and sustainable technology integration. The session concluded with a special keynote address by wellness entrepreneur Anagha Maria Varghese from Chennai on leadership, unlearning powerlessness and wellness in hospitality.
The focus on sustainable and experiential tourism featured insights from Aurovilian Anjali Schiavina on ESG integration and connecting with nature, followed by a panel on specialist experiences with experts from CGH Earth, HouseofTours.com and others, and a SIPAS-funded stakeholder engagement workshop attended by over 15 local professionals.
P. Natarajan, Dean, School of Management, led a team of resources including Sherry Abraham, Gokulapriyan Raj, Karthik B. Pradeep and Fathima Thesleena for management, a press release said.
Published – March 6, 2026 10:59 PM IST
